Quick Facts About Dental Implants
Potential Candidates: Most adults with good oral health and sufficient jawbone density are candidates, though smokers or those with uncontrolled diabetes or gum disease may need additional evaluation.
Treatment Details: The process typically involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone, allowing it to fuse with bone over several months, then attaching a custom-made crown.
Result Longevity: With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or longer, and many patients enjoy them for the rest of their lives.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Depending on the tooth replacement needs of the patient, implants can be topped with crowns, bridges, or dentures to restore one or more missing teeth. Implants offer a long-lasting solution to tooth loss, restoring both smile aesthetics and function. They integrate with the jawbone over time through a process called osseointegration, ensuring enhanced stability and a more natural look and feel than traditional dentures or bridges.
Contact us today to learn more about how our Blaine dentists can help patients experiencing tooth loss improve their oral health and overall quality of life using dental implants.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Potential benefits include:
- Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like natural teeth
- Improved comfort and confidence when eating, speaking, and smiling
- Implants are durable and long-lasting, and they are considered a permanent solution to tooth loss once they successfully fuse with the jawbone
- The implant posts stimulate the jaw bone and gum tissues, preventing the bone loss and gum recession that often follows tooth loss
- Implants are widely considered more comfortable and convenient than traditional dentures, since they are affixed firmly in the mouth and do not require adhesives
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implant candidacy depends on various factors. Generally, suitable candidates should have good overall health and sufficient jawbone density to support the implant(s). In cases where a patient’s jawbone has deteriorated, a bone grafting procedure may be indicated in order to help restore bone density and increase the likelihood of implant success. Ideal candidates should either be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking for the duration of the treatment process, as smoking can impair healing and elevates a patient’s risk for numerous other negative oral health outcomes. Ultimately, a thorough evaluation by a dentist is essential to determine if dental implants are the right option on a case-by-case basis.
Dental Implants vs. Crowns
Although some patients may confuse dental implants with dental crowns, they are actually distinct restorations. A dental crown—often called a “cap”—is designed to cover the visible part of a tooth, protect it from further damage, or enhance its look. A dental implant, on the other hand, serves to replace an entire tooth, including the root that anchors it into the jawbone.
In most implant cases, a custom-made crown is placed on top of the implant post to restore natural function and appearance; however, your best option will depend on your specific needs.
Complementary Procedures to Dental Implants
The dental implant procedure is often paired with other treatments for the most successful, long-lasting results. Additional solutions may be needed to prepare your mouth for a comfortable restoration, such as periodontal therapy to treat pre-existing gum disease or bone grafting to support long-term implant stability. You may also opt to combine your implant procedure with a cosmetic dentistry option (e.g. composite bonding or teeth whitening) for a more comprehensive transformation.
During your consultation and initial evaluation, your dentist will carefully assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend any complementary procedures that could improve your results and overall satisfaction.
What Are My Dental Implant Treatment Options?
Depending on the needs of the patient, there are different types of dental implant restorations.
Single-Tooth Implants
Single-tooth implants are designed to replicate the entire structure of a single missing tooth. The implant post acts as an artificial root while the abutment and crown fill the gap left behind in your smile, restoring chewing and speaking function while promoting long-term jaw health.
Multi-Tooth Dental Implants & Implant Bridges
Implant bridges are multi-tooth restorations where one or more implants are used to support a custom-crafted dental bridge. Multi-tooth implant restorations allow patients to restore multiple adjacent missing teeth using fewer implants, potentially reducing overall cost and recovery time while still promoting the health of the jawbone.
All-on-4® Implant-Supported Dentures
All-on-4® implant-supported dentures are an innovative method of full-arch replacement where a few strategically placed implant posts (usually four to eight) are used to support a denture prosthetic. All-on-4 is often ideal for patients seeking an alternative to traditional removable dentures due to the superior comfort, aesthetics, and functionality associated with implant restorations. During a consultation, one of our dentists can assess your goals and determine whether All-on-4® is right for you.
What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Entail?
The dental implant treatment process involves several steps. First, a comprehensive dental exam and imaging are performed to assess jawbone health and determine implant placement. If needed, preparatory care—such as tooth extractions, periodontal therapy, or bone grafting—may be performed to prepare the mouth for treatment. Next, the titanium implant post(s) are surgically placed into the jawbone. For implant-supported dentures, between two and eight posts will be placed.
The osseointegration process typically takes a few months, during which the implant(s) heal and fuse with the jawbone for a secure, long-lasting fit. Once your dentist has determined that osseointegration is complete, the implant(s) will be topped with custom-fabricated crowns, bridges, or denture prosthetics.
What Can I Expect After Dental Implant Surgery?
For the first few days after dental implant surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling, especially around the surgical site(s). Pain medication and cold packs can help manage these symptoms. Patients are encouraged to eat a soft diet for the first few days after surgery, after which they can gradually progress to regular foods. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, but gentle brushing is advised around the surgical area. Smoking and vaping should be avoided during the healing period to prevent complications. Follow-up appointments with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the implants integrate properly with the jawbone. Full recovery typically takes a few months, at which point the final restoration can be affixed and the treatment can be considered complete.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Top-quality dental implants can last many years; in some cases, they can be considered permanent. With this in mind, the longevity of your implants can be influenced by your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices.* For this reason, our dentists encourage you to brush at least twice daily, floss regularly, attend your scheduled dental exams, and be mindful of your diet.
Choosing a Dentist for Dental Implants
Selecting the right dentist for your implant procedure is one of the most important decisions in the process. As you evaluate your options, consider the following:
- Specialized training: Look for a provider with specific training and experience in implant and restorative dentistry, not just general dentistry.
- Track record: Ask about the number of procedures they’ve performed, and request to see before-and-after cases similar to yours.
- Technology used: A qualified dentist should use advanced imaging technology, like 3D scans, to plan precise implant placement and minimize risks.
- Complication planning: Don’t hesitate to ask about their approach to complications or bone grafting if needed.
- Reviews and consultation: Reading patient reviews and scheduling a consultation can also help you gauge their communication style and whether you feel comfortable trusting them with your care.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the type of restoration being placed (crowns, bridges, or dentures), and any additional treatments required, such as bone grafting. Dental insurance coverage may also affect the overall cost. Once one of our dentists has had a chance to examine your mouth and consult with you regarding your treatment goals, we can provide you with a personalized price quote.
Additional Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions
Will dental implants affect my speech?
Unlike dentures, which can shift and cause slurring or clicking sounds, dental implants are permanently anchored in the jaw and can function like natural teeth. Most patients notice no change in speech at all. In fact, many people who previously wore dentures find their speech actually improves after switching to implants, since there's no more worrying about slipping or repositioning. Any minor adjustment period, if needed, is usually brief as your tongue and mouth adapt to the new tooth structure.
What foods should I avoid after implant surgery?
Immediately after surgery, stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid anything hot, crunchy, spicy, or chewy, such as nuts, chips, or tough meats, which could irritate the surgical site. Skip using straws, as suction can disrupt healing. Also avoid alcohol and hot beverages until our team gives the go-ahead. As healing progresses over the following weeks, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods based on your comfort level and our team’s guidance.
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
Leaving a gap can trigger a cascade of problems. The jawbone beneath the missing tooth begins to deteriorate without stimulation from chewing, and neighboring teeth may shift or tilt into the empty space, affecting your bite alignment. This shifting can lead to increased wear, jaw pain, or difficulty chewing. Over time, facial structure can even change slightly due to bone loss. Replacing the tooth promptly, whether with an implant or another option, helps preserve bone density and prevent these complications.
Contact Legacy Dental Care today to learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.